Tent camping near Marble, Colorado offers primitive backcountry experiences throughout the Gunnison and White River National Forests. Most camping areas sit between 8,000-10,500 feet elevation, with summer temperatures dropping to the 30s at night even in August. Access roads to many dispersed sites require high-clearance 4WD vehicles, especially after rain.
What to do
Hiking Four Pass Loop trail system: The Four Pass Loop provides a challenging multi-day backpacking adventure with campsites along the route. "We stayed at 3 different campsites as we took the entire Four Pass loop over four days. It was an AMAZING experience. All the campsites had amazing views, and most were incredibly private," notes camper Marta S. Weather considerations are important as afternoon storms are common during summer months.
Wildlife viewing at higher elevations: Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "We saw many mountain goats, mule deer, and other critters," reports Cory D. Snowmass Lake also provides wildlife encounters: "We saw a fox, a moose from a distance, and a deer," according to another backpacker.
Creek access for fishing: Many dispersed sites along Lincoln Creek Road offer access to fishing spots. "There's a few different camping options down lincoln creek road— all are free and first come first serve. every campsite has a bear box and fire ring," mentions Amber C. The creek runs behind several campsites, providing easy water access.
What campers like
Private campsites with natural screening: Lower Prince Creek Campground features tent sites with good separation. "There is fairly decent privacy due to the thick scrub oak between each of the sites," explains Eric B. This BLM site has five primitive camping spots and a bathroom, though no potable water.
Cooler temperatures in shaded areas: Thompson Creek offers tent sites with varied sun exposure. "The spots by the stream are cooler, more shaded but empty in late August. Mid summer they fill up fast so we moved up to the dispersed sites," notes Amanda U. Streamside camping provides natural cooling during hot summer days.
Accessibility to alpine lakes: Portal Campground sits adjacent to Grizzly Reservoir at 10,500 feet elevation. "This is a terrific campground, and although you aren't backcountry camping, it feels more removed than many typical car camping locations," shares Christina S. The high-elevation setting creates a remote feel despite vehicle access.
What you should know
Road conditions require appropriate vehicles: Access to many tent camping areas demands high-clearance vehicles. For Portal Campground, "After you turn off of Hwy 82 it's 6.5 miles up a 4x4 road. I made it in a small 'crossover' AWD SUV, but anything lower might have trouble," advises Christina S. Lincoln Creek Road features significant ruts and tight turns.
Weather concerns at elevation: Late afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months. "Get to campsites early as the good spots fill up quick. Make sure to get the passes over before noon as your likely to get a lightning storm not much after noon," warns Forrest Y. about the Four Pass Loop. Flash flooding can also affect access roads during heavy rain.
Campsite availability varies seasonally: Horse Ranch Park dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. "Found this place late afternoon and fell in love with Gunnison National Forest! Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view! Most of the other spots were taken so we were blessed," reports Trish M.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with stream access: For families with children, camping near water provides natural entertainment. "Private and easy access to the creek behind site 4. Site 4 was definitely the best," notes Lauren about Silver Bar Campground, which has clean vault toilets and trash service.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Pack warm clothing even in summer months. "The temps were pretty chilly at night…upper 30s in late August…and a really pleasant high 60s during day," notes Christina S. about Portal Campground. Layering is essential for children when camping at these elevations.
Consider altitude effects: Many tent camping sites around Marble sit above 9,000 feet elevation. "Keep in mind that the campground at Portal is 10,500 feet so if you aren't used to the altitude or familiar with altitude sickness you'll want to do a little research before camping here as it's a long bumpy drive out," cautions Connor M.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit larger RVs: Most dispersed camping areas near Marble have tight access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. "WARNING: No vehicles over 35 feet long are allowed on Highway 82 to access this campground," notes Sean N. about Portal Campground. The narrow mountain roads with steep grades restrict larger recreational vehicles.
Limited amenities for RVs: No hookups or dump stations exist in the dispersed areas. "I would say except for the large picnic area and site one, the campground is best set up for tents and camper vans," reports Eric B. about Lower Prince Creek Campground. Smaller camper vans and truck campers fare better than traditional RVs in these primitive settings.
